The Ancient Art of Cupping and Why I Still Swear By It

In the world of wellness, there are fads that come and go and then there are therapies that have stood the test of time. Cupping is one of those ancient practices I’ve returned to again and again, especially when I’m feeling depleted, tense, or simply in need of a physical reset. If you’ve seen the deep circular marks it leaves behind, you might be curious (or even skeptical). But let me tell you those marks are signs of healing in motion.

Cupping dates back thousands of years to traditional Chinese medicine, and its use was also documented in ancient Egyptian and Middle Eastern cultures. In its earliest form, practitioners used animal horns or bamboo to create suction on the skin. The goal was always the same: to move stagnant blood, unblock chi (life force), and stimulate the body’s natural detox systems. Today, we use glass or silicone cups with heat or air suction but the intention remains unchanged.

I was first introduced to cupping during my travels through Asia in my first career. I remember being in Tokyo after a long-haul flight, my body aching and my energy flat. A local healer placed warm cups along my back, and within minutes, I felt the pressure begin to lift physically, mentally, emotionally. It was as if I had released something that had been stored for too long.

So, why should you consider adding cupping to your wellness routine?

For starters, it improves circulation and lymphatic drainage, helping the body flush out toxins naturally. It’s a powerful tool for reducing inflammation, easing muscle pain, and even boosting your immune system. I use it regularly as part of my recovery protocol especially after intense workouts, long flights, or periods of high stress. It’s like giving your body permission to let go.

Yes, the marks can look intense, but they’re not bruises. They’re simply the result of suction pulling blood to the surface to stimulate healing. Within a few days, they fade and what’s left is a body that feels lighter, looser, and more aligned.

In a world that moves too fast and often ignores the body’s quiet cries for attention, cupping invites us to slow down and listen. It’s an ancient therapy for our very modern lives and one I’ll keep returning to, no matter how many years pass.

To your vitality,

Lizanne